CHARLES TOWN UTILITIES Lead Service Line Inventory
About Your Water System
CHARLES TOWN UTILITIES serves approximately 15,220 people in West Virginia. The system draws from surface water sources.
Lead Service Line Inventory Status
As of now, CHARLES TOWN UTILITIES has not yet completed a full inventory of lead service lines in their system. This means the utility has not publicly reported how many lead pipes may exist in their distribution network or customer connections.
Why this matters: Federal law requires all water systems to identify and inventory lead service lines by 2024. An incomplete inventory usually means the work is still underway. Until the inventory is finished, neither you nor the utility may know for certain whether your home has a lead service line—though testing can provide an answer for your specific property.
What You Can Do Now
Contact your utility directly to ask:
- Whether an inventory is underway and when results will be available
- Whether your specific address has a known lead service line
- How to request a free water test for lead (many utilities offer this)
- What filters or other interim measures might reduce your exposure while waiting for system improvements
Test your water at home. You don't need to wait for the inventory to know your own risk. Utilities often provide free lead test kits, or you can hire a certified lab. Lead in water is most commonly a problem in older homes (built before 1980) and affects water only at the tap—not your shower or laundry.
If you have young children or are pregnant: Talk to your pediatrician or OB-GYN about lead exposure risk. The CDC has detailed guidance on reducing lead in drinking water at home.
Next Steps for Residents
- Call CHARLES TOWN UTILITIES and ask about their lead service line inventory timeline and availability of free testing.
- Request a water test for lead at your tap (especially if your home was built before 1980).
- Ask about interim options—point-of-use filters (like pitcher filters or faucet-mounted filters certified for lead) can reduce exposure while pipes are being replaced or inventoried.
- Check with your local health department for additional resources or support programs in West Virginia.
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
How do I know if my house has a lead service line?
You can contact CHARLES TOWN UTILITIES to ask if your address is on their lead inventory, or request a free water test for lead at your tap. The most reliable way is a professional test or inspection of the pipe between your meter and home.
Is lead in water dangerous?
Lead in drinking water is a serious health concern, especially for young children and pregnant people. The CDC recommends reducing exposure through testing, using filters, and flushing lines. Talk to your doctor about your specific risk.
When will CHARLES TOWN UTILITIES finish their lead inventory?
Federal law requires completion by 2024. Contact the utility directly for their specific timeline and progress updates.
Can I fix a lead service line myself?
No. Lead service line replacement must be done by a licensed plumber and often requires coordination with the water utility. Ask your utility about replacement programs or cost assistance.